This article was written by Huba Alvi, a 6th-semester B.S. Psychology student at Jinnah University for Women, who completed the Clinical Psychology Internship in Mental Health Care at the IQ Institute of Neuropsychiatry in July 2025. In this piece, she reflects on how supervision, ethical training, and hands-on practice in documentation and client interaction helped her translate theory into confidence and professional growth.
When I began the Clinical Psychology internship in Mental Health Care at the IQ Institute of Neuropsychiatry, I carried with me both excitement and uncertainty. I hoped to move beyond theory and finally see how psychology operates in real world settings. My main expectation was simple: to gain practical exposure, observe experienced professionals at work, and start developing the confidence to see myself in a clinical role.
From the very first sessions at IQ, I realized how different the clinical environment feels compared to the classroom. We were introduced to the principles of ethics, professional conduct, and the importance of boundaries in therapeutic relationships. Gradually, our training moved into interactive methods like role plays, which were an essential tool for learning. Taking turns as both therapist and client not only strengthened our understanding of communication techniques but also allowed us to experience the emotional dynamics on both sides of the therapeutic relationship.
Another important part of my experience was learning how to collect, organize, and present client information. Through history taking and report writing exercises, I saw how structured assessment forms the backbone of psychological work. At IQ, we also discussed how to engage with clients who may be hesitant or resistant, which made me realize that therapy requires patience, respect, creativity in approach.
Supervision at IQ was another highlight. Feedback sessions not only corrected my mistakes but also encouraged me to experiment with new skills. They taught me that learning in psychology is less about “getting everything right” and more about being open, reflective, and adaptable.
This internship helped me build a foundation of practical skills, from active listening and paraphrasing to professional documentation and case formulation. Just as importantly, it also reinforced that these skills are most effective when combined with empathy, presence, and ethical awareness.
Since then, I have noticed growth in my confidence. Before, I often questioned myself or hesitated to speak. Overtime, I learned to trust the process, to reflect more openly, and to treat uncertainty as part of professional development rather than as weakness.
For future interns stepping into this journey at the IQ Institute of Neuropsychiatry, I would encourage you to come with an open mind, patience, and a genuine willingness to learn. The experience here is rich with opportunities to observe, practice, and grow under the guidance of skilled supervisors. Take every role play, discussion, and feedback session seriously, as even the smallest tasks will add to your professional development. Ask questions without hesitation, reflect on each day’s learning, and remember that this internship is not just about gaining skills but also about shaping the kind of professional you aspire to become.
This internship at the IQ Institute of Neuropsychiatry has been a meaningful milestone in my journey as a psychology student. It not only strengthened my foundation in clinical practice but also reinforced the values of empathy, professionalism, and ethical care that IQ embodies. I move forward with greater confidence, clearer direction, and a sincere motivation to continue learning and contributing to the field of mental health.
